Most homeowners will undertake at least one major home remodeling project during the lifetime of their home. Whether it's that hideous wallpaper, stained and cracked counter, or tacky linoleum floor, things fall into disrepair or go out-of-date. Kitchen and bathroom remodeling are, by far, the two most popular home remodeling projects, but that doesn't necessarily mean they're the right home remodeling projects for you.

The best home remodeling ideas are the ones that promise to improve your quality of life. Bathroom and kitchen remodels may have the highest average financial return on your investment, but any home remodeling project will likely add to your property value and few add the entire cost of the remodel. Your biggest need may be a home office or basement remodel. Your living room may be in such bad shape from pet damage that it's begging to be dealt with first. Plus, you never really know what a potential home buyer is going to treasure most. With more and more people working from home, the increasing value of a remodeled home office isn't going anywhere any time soon.

Major Home Remodeling Ideas
Regardless of the home area you choose to remodel, the key to a successful home remodeling project is planning. Trade shows, showrooms, and the Internet are all great ways to generate preliminary ideas. You should give yourself some time to get a feel for what you want, the size of the project budget, and how you can finance the remodel. For major home remodels, a custom floor plan and building permits are mandatory before any real construction begins. You naturally don't need to have all the answers, but the more you know about what you want the more efficient and hassle free your remodeling project is likely to be.

Of course, you can always go into a home improvement project full bore. Tell us you have $10,000 to spend on a kitchen remodel and we'll find a contractor who can begin to make it happen. By taking a more proactive, knowledgeable, and patient approach to your home remodeling project, you reduce the risk of miscommunication between you and the contractor. You will also increase the proficiency of completing your home remodel and, inevitably, reduce the total cost of your project, while still getting everything you want from your new home living area.

Minor Home Remodeling Ideas
Not every home remodeling idea involves extensive planning and floor plans. Replacing your old wallpaper, adding storage cabinets, or simply redecorating can transform some areas of your home without the costly process of a complete bathroom or kitchen remodel. Another great basis for home remodeling ideas is to spread your money around and avoid dumping all your expendable dough into one area. This is especially true for homeowners who have some extra cash, would like to spruce up their home, but don't have one area of the home that has any urgent remodeling needs.

New wall or floor coverings, such as hiring a professional, decorative house painter or a laminate flooring project can have dramatic results without breaking the bank or consuming months of your time and energy. If you're not sure where to begin, the best idea may be to hire an interior designer to come in for a consultation. Their trained eye and problem solving strategies promise to give you ideas for your home that you wouldn't have thought of otherwise.

Specific Home Remodeling Ideas
For more home remodeling ideas specific to each room in your home, go to our search page and type in the area of the home you've decided to remodel. We have great suggestions and ideas for every home remodeling project out there. After you've read a little about your home remodeling options, we can put you in touch with a local, reliable contractor ready to get started on your new home remodel.

Marcus Pickett is a professional freelance writer for the home remodeling industry. He has published more than 600 articles on both regional and national topics within the home improvement industry.